Which medication is used as a rescue inhaler for acute asthma attacks?

• A. Fluticasone
• B. Budenoside
• C. Albuterol
• D. Salmeterol

Answer: (C)

The medication that is used as a rescue inhaler for acute asthma attacks is albuterol. Albuterol is a short-acting beta-2 adrenergic agonist that works quickly to relax the muscles around the airways, leading to bronchodilation. This rapid action makes it ideal for immediate relief during an asthma attack when a patient experiences symptoms like wheezing, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.

In contrast, fluticasone and budesonide are both corticosteroids used for long-term management of asthma. They are effective in reducing inflammation and preventing asthma symptoms but do not provide acute relief. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-2 agonist that is also not suitable for rescue purposes due to its slower onset of action and is intended for ongoing asthma control rather than immediate symptom relief. Therefore, albuterol’s quick-acting properties are what make it the go-to choice in emergency scenarios involving acute asthma exacerbations.